Poverty reduction and employment opportunities enhancement of marginalized and vulnerable population groups in Serbia

Region: Republic of Serbia – Cities of Nis and Smederevo, Municipality of Pirot

Description: The project focuses on the strong educational and direct economic support to Roma and other vulnerable population groups contributing to sustainable socio-economic development in targeted areas.

The project has a direct impact on increasing social inclusion. Its activities aim to remove the obstacles to raising the educational level and strengthening the competences of poor and marginalized populations which will improve their position in the labor market.

Components of the project

Direct assistance for the development of 9 cooperatives (at least 60 beneficiaries)

Support to individual entrepreneurs among the representatives of Roma and local vulnerable population (165 direct beneficiaries)

611 members of Roma community and other marginalized population groups enhanced their professional skills, thus became more competitive on the labor market

15 trained workers with the increased chances for further employment through paid internship

The overall objective of the project is to contribute to the inclusion of marginalized Roma and other socially vulnerable population groups into the social and economic life of the country and reduction of poverty among the targeted groups.

The specific objective is to provide Roma and other vulnerable population groups with improved access to the labor market.

This will be achieved through motivation for active job search, engagement in active labor market measures, establishing strategic partnerships and enhancing employment opportunities for Roma and other vulnerable population groups by encouraging entrepreneurship and development of cooperatives.

Professional training focused on the professions that are needed in the local market will result in improved qualifications, competence and competitiveness of the targeted population segments in the labor market.>